Location:

Tokyo, Japan

Program Type:

Study Abroad

Degree Level:

Undergraduate

Term:

Winter Semester

Program Overview

Program Description:

Several years have passed since March 11, 2011 yet the impact of the Fukushima disasters continues to affect those living in the prefecture. Thousands of citizens remain without a permanent home or a stable source of income, and concerns, often unsubstantiated, about radioactive contamination continue to bedevil small businesses and industry within the prefecture. The Fukushima Ambassadors Program is an opportunity for students to see, hear, and reflect objectively upon the challenges faced in Fukushima today. By implementing a community-service based, hands-on approach to learning, the program helps students evaluate any misconceptions they may have about post-3/11 Fukushima, and become, if they wish, an agent for its recovery after their return.

Overall Aims of the Program -Further the students understanding of the impacts that the 3.11 disaster has had on the lives of the people living in Fukushima -Dispel any misconceptions they may have of Fukushima -Help students identify ways that they can become an agent for change in the recovery efforts for Fukushima after returning home Please see our website for more information.

Please see our website for more information.

Setting Description:

Main Activities: -Visiting people living in temporary housing districts -Student-guided tour of Fukushima University - Inspection tour of disaster-affected areas on the coast of Fukushima and Miyagi - Discussions with city officials and NGO leaders on restoration planning -Homestay at Soma City (including host families living in temporary housing) -Disaster relief volunteer work (clearing debris) at Minami Soma City -Field study of local agricultural and tourism sectors affected by nuclear disasters -One night stay at local Onsen district -Interaction with kindergarten and junior high school students living in disaster-affected regions -Japanese cultural activities (ex. Tea Ceremony, Visits to Samurai School, etc.) -Travel to Tokyo and Kyoto with free time to tour each city is included in the itinerary.

Cost:

Please see our website for more information.